Hi my MPN friends, today I received a copy of a letter sent to my GP from my MPN consultant. In it she states that my ALT is raised and because of this has arranged a liver scan to investigate why. Because of my frequent dizziness, confusion and slurring when tired, she has also arranged a brain scan. Just wondered if anybody knows what ALT is?

5 Replies

The alanine aminotransferase (ALT) test is typically used to detect liver injury. It is often ordered in conjunction with aspartate aminotransferase (AST) or as part of a liver panel to screen for and/or help diagnose liver disease

I have elevated liver enzimes too. I had a liver biopsy carried out to check if any issues, thankfully it came back that it was healthy.

They are putting it down to the fact i have an enlarged spleen and it creates more pressure so as a result we see elevated levels, not sure the mechanics and all that but that seems to be the assumption.

My levels are tested regularly and i have been advised aslong as they dont worsen then they arent too concerned, in fact they have actually improved over the past year, I have been taking some supplements which i think have helped.

Good luck, i think the checks, whilst worrying, will hopefully put your mind at rest.

Ahhhh, now I do have an enlarged spleen so that could answer it. I was concerned because the levels had jumped up quite rapidly. Guess the scan will put mind to rest and answer my concerns. Thanks for the replies everyone xx

Thats ok. Just be prepared for the questions i had fired at me about excessive alcohol drinking etc. Unfortunately the heptoligist who handles your liver may not be very familiar with MPN's.

I had this and felt like i was trying to explain to them about my spleen etc until blue in the face.

If anything like mine they will have their own views on how things may get resolved, in my case they wanted to take my spleen out, however fortunately my MPN consultant was on top of things and ensured nothing happened.

This is the first time I have written anything on this forum but I am finding people's comments very interesting and helpful.

I was diagnosed ET jak2 negative last year. My ALT and ALT have both been above normal ranges for the past 2 years. My gastroenterologist does not think they are linked but sent me for a fibroscan on my liver. This came back completely normal with no liver fibrosis thankfully. I am getting bloods done today and see my Haematologist in 10 days so I must ask about the role of the spleen in this as no one has mentioned it to me before.